Diamond Invisalign Provider

When you choose to start treatment we will scan your teeth and take initial photos. The scan will help with step 3 and the photos will be awesome to see how far you have come during treatment.

An added benefit of Invisalign is that Dr. Bates can do much of the work on your case behind the scenes. He maps the treatment plan and knows the course to your perfect smile even before the clear aligners are delivered.

There’s a saying among dentists: “Only brush the teeth you want to keep.” With Invisalign, we say, “Wear your aligners on the teeth you want to straighten.” It is a pretty easy process – wear your aligners and your new smile will shine. Dr. Bates will monitor your progress at appointments throughout treatment to ensure an excellent result.

How do I start my Invisalign journey at Bates Orthodontics?
The process begins with a free consultation, during which we assess your smile goals and dental health. If you are a candidate, we use advanced 3D scanning technology to create a digital map of your teeth, eliminating the need for messy traditional impressions.

How long does Invisalign treatment usually take?
Treatment duration varies based on the complexity of your case, but many patients see a transformed smile in as little as 6 months. On average, most adult and teen treatments are completed within 12 to 18 months of consistent wear.

How many hours a day do I need to wear my aligners?
For the treatment to be effective, you must wear your aligners for 20 to 22 hours every day. You should only remove them to eat, drink anything other than water, and perform your daily brushing and flossing routine.

How often will I need to visit the orthodontist during treatment?
Because there are no wires to tighten or brackets to adjust, you will typically have check-ins every 6 to 10 weeks. These visits allow Dr. Bates to monitor your progress and provide you with your next set of aligner trays.

Does Invisalign treatment hurt?
While you may feel some pressure or “tightness” for a day or two when switching to a new set of aligners, most patients find Invisalign much more comfortable than traditional braces. This pressure is a positive sign that your teeth are moving toward their new, healthy positions.

Can I still eat my favorite foods with Invisalign?
Absolutely! Since the aligners are removable, there are no dietary restrictions like those required with metal braces. You can continue to enjoy popcorn, apples, and sticky treats—just remember to brush your teeth before putting your aligners back in.

Will wearing aligners affect the way I speak?
You may experience a slight lisp for the first day or two as your tongue adjusts to the aligners in your mouth. This is temporary, and most patients find that their speech returns to normal very quickly as they get used to the trays.

Can I play sports or musical instruments while wearing them?
Yes, Invisalign fits seamlessly into an active lifestyle and won’t interfere with playing wind instruments or participating in sports. For contact sports, you can simply remove your aligners and wear a standard mouthguard to protect your teeth.

How much does Invisalign cost in Richmond, VA?
The cost of Invisalign is often comparable to the cost of traditional braces and depends on the length and complexity of your treatment. We offer a Cost Calculator on our website and provide flexible payment plans to fit your family’s budget.

Does dental insurance cover Invisalign?
Many dental insurance plans with orthodontic benefits cover Invisalign just as they would traditional braces. Our office staff is happy to help you verify your insurance coverage and maximize your benefits to reduce your out-of-pocket costs.

Are there financing options available?
Yes, we understand that orthodontic treatment is an investment, which is why we offer various financing options and monthly payment plans. Our goal is to make a beautiful, confident smile accessible to everyone in our community.

How do I keep my aligners clean?
The best way to clean your aligners is to gently brush them with a soft toothbrush and rinse them in lukewarm water. Avoid using hot water, as it can warp the plastic and affect the tray’s fit.

What is the best way to maintain oral hygiene during treatment?
Invisalign makes oral hygiene easy because you can brush and floss normally after removing your trays. Maintaining a strict routine of brushing after every meal is essential to prevent food and bacteria from being trapped against your teeth by the aligners.

What happens if I lose or break an aligner?
If you lose or damage a tray, contact Bates Orthodontics immediately so we can advise you on the next steps. Depending on where you are in that stage of treatment, we may have you wear a previous set or move forward to the next set early.

Do I need to wear a retainer after Invisalign?
Yes, wearing a retainer is a critical final step to ensure your teeth stay in their new positions permanently. Dr. Bates will provide specific instructions on how often to wear your retainer once your active treatment is complete.

Is Invisalign suitable for teenagers?
Yes, Invisalign is an excellent option for teens who want a discreet way to straighten their teeth without the “metal mouth” look. It allows them to continue enjoying their favorite school activities and foods with minimal interruption to their social lives.